4 Things to Know About Teen Wolf's Shelley Hennig

After months of anxiously waiting, MTV's Teen Wolf is finally making its triumphant return tonight with its fourth season! As with every season preceding tonight's premiere, the plot lines and unexpected characters will surely shake up the pack of wolves and coyotes. Malia Tate, the new coyote-turned-human of the group, played by the beautiful Shelley Hennig, is already viewed as one of the more complex, dynamic characters of the show (and we'll be seeing even more of her--Hennig recently signed on to be a series regular). Despite Tate's interesting back story, the star behind the role has had plenty of defining moments in her life so far. From starting out as a beauty pageant queen in Louisiana to becoming a full-fledged activist, get to know the star behind the MTV show.

1. She's Older Than She Looks
Known for playing younger characters on TV, most notably on the now-defunct CW show, The Secret Circle, the Louisiana native is actually 27.

2. She's a Former Pageant Queen
Before making big moves on the small screen, Hennig spent 2004 as Miss Teen USA, becoming the first winner from her home state.

3. She Gives Back
After losing her brother in a drunk driving accident, Hennig made it her mission to work alongside non-profits to mentor teens on the dangers of alcoholism and driving under the influence.

4. She Made Her Acting Debut on Daytime TV
Following her run as Miss Teen USA, Hennig spent five years on the super-successful soap opera, Days of Our Lives, where she earned two Daytime Emmy Award nominations in 2010 and 2012.